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Dynamic Urban Retreat Integrating Internal Core and External Skin

Author:
Changjian Jia
Dynamic Urban Retreat Integrating Internal Core and External Skin
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With an emphasis on the contrast between the stable Internal Core and the adaptable External Skin, this urban meditation space in Tokyo offers a tranquil retreat designed to enhance personal reflection while engaging with the dynamic city environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a duality of the Internal Core and External Skin for unique user experience.
02
Four distinct forms respond to various urban environments, enhancing spatial interaction.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for innovative use of light and shadow in the meditation space.
04
The structure draws on the chaotic nature of Tokyo while providing a calm atmosphere.
05
Emphasis on adaptability fosters a connection between users and the surrounding city.

CODE-ROUND is an architectural proposal designed to create a meditation space within the urban setting of Tokyo. The project addresses the need for a peaceful retreat amidst the city's fast pace, promoting reflection and well-being. The design centers on two key elements: the Internal Core, which symbolizes stability and introspection, and the External Skin, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of surrounding life. This framework allows for a meaningful connection between users and the urban environment.

Internal Core
The Internal Core is a stable, constant structure that emphasizes the importance of a calm space for personal reflection. Its design fosters intimacy, inviting users to engage with their thoughts and feelings. The clarity and simplicity of the Internal Core stand in contrast to the complexity of the urban landscape outside, offering a place where individuals can find focus and tranquility.

External Skin
In contrast, the External Skin is created to be dynamic and adaptable, responding to the ever-changing environment of the city. This component enhances the relationship between the meditation space and the bustling activity of Tokyo. Its adaptable qualities reflect the lively atmosphere of the city, encouraging interaction and engagement with the outside world. The design captures the essence of urban life while providing a retreat for those seeking calm.

Design Evolution
The design evolves through the characteristics of the Internal Core and External Skin into four distinct forms, each responding to different surroundings: over the city, outside the building, above the surface, and below ground. Each form is designed with the user experience in mind, addressing specific contextual elements. This thoughtful approach recognizes the importance of site responsiveness and the diverse needs of those who seek refuge in the meditation space.

CODE-ROUND presents a vision for integrating meditation and design within Tokyo's fabric. It establishes a clear relationship between its two main components, allowing users to transition between the calm of the Internal Core and the lively nature of the External Skin. The architectural details enhance the meditation experience, with light and shadow playing across the different forms. This interplay invites users to explore their connection to both the inner self and the dynamic urban environment surrounding them.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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